Join me on the elegant 12-passenger ship M/S Balto, on a true expedition cruise in the Sermilik Fjords, Greenland – one of the last unspoiled wildernesses in the world. As we venture into the world’s most amazing and beautiful fjord system, we will experience breath-taking nature and scenery, large icebergs of unimaginable shapes. The clean air, the silence, and the enormity of nature are captivating.
Below is an illustration of the M/S Balto. This ship will allow us to go where we want and get up close and personal with this region. You’ll have so much to share on your return.
The M/S Balto a 12-passenger ship. I have chartered the ship for Rockhopper Workshops only. Join me and 12 other passengers as we explore one of the most picturesque locations you have ever seen.
Map Illustrations Of Where We Will Be Visiting
The area in the red box is where we will be traveling to.The Fjord System we will be visiting. It’s a very large area
This Video Is Webinar Of Many Of The Locations We Will Be Visiting (30:00)
East Greenland – The Sermilik Fjords August 13 – 22, 2024
With Kevin Raber
I have been coming to Greenland for years now and usually on a larger ship with 50-65 passengers. In 2024 I will be visiting East Greenland and the mighty fjords around Sermilik on a 12-passenger trip aboard the M/S Balto. This ship is a photographer’s dream come true. A small ship low to the water can go where other ships can’t. From the time we board the ship until we depart, we will be on a non-stop quest for the most amazing images you may have ever taken in your life.
Along with the Captain and Expedition Leader, I will lead you on a trip to some of the most amazing places around Sermilik Fjords of Greenland. We will see icebergs and landscapes you can’t even imagine. We will land at some of the most amazing places. We will cruise along glacier fronts and hunt down incredible icebergs the likes and size of which you have never seen before. If it sounds like I am excited, it’s because I am. After three years without traveling and visiting Greenland and other destinations, I am ready, and I hope you are too, for an incredible catch-up year. This trip I assure you will make up for your lost time photographing. Spots are filling fast for this trip.
My goal is to make sure you have an unforgettable experience. I will be there to help you maximize your photographic potential. I will work with you elbow to elbow during our cruising time and then be there with you on Zodiac cruises and landings. I’ll help you see things differently and answer any technical questions you may have. Since this is a ship cruise, we will be together the whole time. Learning and sharing never stop as we have time to share in the lounge and during meals. We are only stepping away from the deck which is all our at a low level to get you up close and personal with whatever we encounter.
Photo by Art Wolfe
As a photographic cruise, we will be working to make sure we visit locations at the best times for ideal light. Don’t be surprised if you are shooting from dawn to sunset. And, the nights won’t be long. We may even have some good Northern Lights experiences.
An expedition cruise to Sermilik – one of the last unspoiled wildernesses in the world. The grandiose landscape is dominated by glaciers and beautifully shaped icebergs. Most of the year this ice-choked fjord system is inaccessible and it is only in summer, when the tundra is clad in autumn colors, that we have a chance to get here. Plus there will be a number of communities we can visit. Most cruises go to Scoresby Sound but with new restriction put on tours there tis will be even better. It’s an unexplored area and you will be some of the first photographers seeing this magnificent landscape.
On this exciting Arctic expedition, we venture into one of the largest remaining wilderness areas in the Northern Hemisphere, where large areas are virtually untouched by man.
Our group will be 12 photographers/attendees, myself, and an expedition leader. You’ll have plenty of time for one on one help. Our goal is to make sure you get the most out of this wonderful photographic trip. Oh, spouses are welcome and we are sure they will enjoy this incredible location as much as you will.
It doesn’t matter if you are shooting on iPhone or the best larger format gear, you will come away with some magnificent wall worthy images.
Rock formations like you have never seen before and glaciers everywhere.
The expedition starts in Reykjavik, Iceland. You’ll fly from Reykjavik to Kulusuk, to board the Balto and begin your expedition. The Balto will be perfect for this trip. (see the price section below for the mandatory flight/ hotel package).
Once we land at Kulusuk, we get right into Expedition Mode. After a short safety briefing and a chance to get settled into your cabin, we will lift anchor and start cruising. From this point on the photo opportunities will come at us fast.
The Immensity Of Greenland
Icebergs take on magical looks by Kevin Raber
The video above was made by Chris Sanderson and I feel describes how I felt about Greenland. Everything is big. Greenland is one of my favorite places to visit. It’s a dynamic landscape. There is not a cliche to be found. From the immense landscape to the intricate close-up details of an iceberg, Greenland will not disappoint you. I hope you enjoy this video and that you give great consideration to joining me for what will be an amazing photographic adventure.
Lounge on the BaltoA great place to work on our images together.Cabin
I see the world through the lens and a frame. Photography for me is an extension of who I am. I have gone through many stages in my career. At one time I was a portrait photographer with many prestigious clients. Over time I grew restless for something else in the field. I truly enjoy my current work as a fine art landscape photographer. There is something special about examining and photographing everything from grand scenes in nature that are there for a moment and then gone to industrial landscapes and focusing on the incredibly minute details of peeling paint and rust. I am most fortunate to be able to travel to many wonderful places.
I have fond memories of nights and weekends spent in the darkroom creating prints. The stereo blasting. It could be fun and it could be tedious. You didn’t always know what you were going to get and, at times, it required extensive hands-on darkroom manipulation. I can still smell the chemicals. I was taught by the masters of the darkroom.
Today, that has all changed thanks to the advent of computers, digital cameras and Photoshop. The darkroom is the computer. Some things are still unpredictable, but the tools to achieve the final result allow you to see them immediately on the screen in real-time and right in front of you. Digital allows you to capture a range of tonalities and exposures that were impossible with film. Variables such as emulsion, temperature, chemistry and exposure are taken out of the equation. What you see on your computer monitor is what you will get when printed. One thing that hasn’t changed is the music. It goes along with creating and working on images. Thank God for iTunes.
I embraced digital early on. It continues to evolve and provide flexibility to all who embrace it. The digital age is still young and has completely transformed our industry. Never before has a switch from analog to digital been so prevalent as in photography. I’m looking forward to seeing where the next ten years take us.
My career in photography has evolved since 1972 when I first began making a living with photography. Today I am also CEO and Owner of photopxl.com, one of the most visited and prestigious websites for the photographers on the internet. I lead photography workshops to the edge of the planet locations as well as provide instructional videos to photographers on how to improve their craft.
There doesn’t seem to be anything that can dampen my passion and enthusiasm for photography. It has opened doors to the world for me and I am most grateful I can share my experiences with others.
M/S Balto Accommodations & Pricing
Itinerary
Day 1: Reykjavik
We arrive individually to Reykjavik and check in to our hotel (included in the flight and hotel package described below).
By Kevin Raber
Day 2: Reykjavik & Flight to Kulusuk, Greenland
Explore the lovely city of Reykjavik on your own. In the afternoon we transfer to Keflavik and our flight to Kulusuk, and the airport built by the US Air Force in 1956. Kulusuk means “the village with the mountain that looks like the breast of a bird” in the Greenlandic, referring to the Isikajia Mountain located directly behind the airport. In the evening we board our expedition ship and begin our great exploration.
Day 3 -8: Expedition Cruising
We are now on an expedition cruise and our exact route will be decided by weather and ice. Some areas can be filled with ice and therefore not always reachable. Please note that the places mentioned below are just examples of places we can visit on this true expedition cruise.
We visit the town of Tasiilaq. With just under 2000 inhabitants, it is the largest settlement in East Greenland. It is home to an older and different Inuit culture, where shamanism and native culture is much more vibrant than in other parts of Greenland. During our expedition here, we will learn more of local myths and legends, as the one about tupilaqs. In Greenlandic Inuit religion, a tupilaq was an avenging monster fabricated by a practitioner of witchcraft or shamanism by using various objects such as animal bone, skin, hair, or sinew. Tasiilaq is also known for a its art scene, where local artists create prints, sculptures and textiles mostly portraying the animals, landscapes and traditional stories of the area.
By Kevin Raber
We venture into the serenity of the Ammassalik fjord system and the small settlement of Kuummiut. This is a relatively unknown pearl of east Greenland, nestled within the Ammassalik Island group. The surrounding fjords – lined by tall mountain tops offer perfect hiking opportunities, with hidden waterfalls and spectacular views. Kuummiut has a rich Inuit heritage, and we hope to get the opportunity to learn about the traditional practices.
Further up north is the Ikateq fjord, where we might make a landing at the abandoned military base from World War II, Bluie East Two. It played an important role in serving as a refuelling and maintenance stop for aircraft travelling between north America and Europe. Today it is no longer in operation, but some remnants still exist, such as abandoned fuel drums, buildings and vehicles.
Further east are two impressive glaciers: Karale and Knud Rasmussen. Sailing in this area, we are likely to hear and see the thunderous calving of these two very active glaciers.
By Kevin Raber
We continue into the mighty Sermilik fjord. It stretches over 90 kilometres and cuts through a rugged landscape of towering glaciers and jagged peaks, and we find ourselves amongst a myriad of icebergs of all shapes and sizes. Most of them originating from the impressive Helheim glacier at the deep end of the fjord, which produces some of the largest icebergs in all of Greenland. The beauty around us is stunning!
On the southern shores of Sermilik fjord is the tiny village of Tiilerilaaq. The wooden houses are beautifully situated on a hill, with the grand Sermilik fjord in the background. The local Inuit culture and the traditional hunting and fishing activities play a significant role in the way of life here. Before we wave goodbye, we head out on a nice hike to overview the surrounding landscapes and the many icebergs!
If the ice allows, we enter Johan Peterson fjord. On the northern side of the entrance of the fjord is Qeertartivatsiaq Island, where we find Inuit ruins on the southern shore of the island. At the head of the fjord are some outlet glaciers from the inland ice coming straight down to the sea. This is one of few places you can catch sight of the actual inland ice, although please know that it is often blocked by beautyful icebergs.
We are continuously looking for Arctic foxes, seals and different species of whale.
By Art WolfeBy Kevin Raber
Day 9: Kulusuk – Reykjavik
After a long, nice breakfast, we disembark in Kulusuk. We head out on one final Greenland excursion: a glacier hike to an ice cave – it is a truly unique experience to lose yourself in this surreal world of blue and to take in all of the cave’s incredible details. After an early dinner in Kulusuk, we head to the airport and our flight to Reykjavik, where we check into our hotel for a good night sleep. (Included in the flight and hotel package.)
Day 10: Homeward bound
Today we bid our farewells and return home or onwards for new adventures.
Please note: Our exact route will depend on ice, weather conditions and wildlife. The places mentioned are just examples of some of the sites this region of Greenland has to offer. We always strive to maximize your experience. Please remember that flexibility is the key to a successful expedition!
By Kevin Raber
IMPORTANT REMINDER
Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice, and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.
Iceberg abstract By Kevin Raber
Pricing and Registration
Prices are shown in USD and priced per berth. To reserve your spot a $2500.00 USD deposit is required. This will be payable to Polar Quest. Please read the Terms & Conditions. Polar Quest Expeditions will handle all the bookings and related questions and information.
Rockhopper workshops will handle all workshop-related questions and details. As we get closer to the trip we will send out more information regarding suggested camera gear and clothing. Please feel free to contact Kevin Raber at kwr@rockhopperworkshops.com or cal 317-379-7482 for any questions regarding this workshop. Airfare is not included and it will be your responsibility to arrive and to arrange departure flights from Reykjavik.
This is a perfect workshop to bring your spouse. We have some cabins set up perfectly for couples.
Double Cabin with double bed . . $8990.00 USD per person (2 cabins available) Superior Cabin twin b eds . . $9,690 USD per person (1 cabin available) Owner’s Cabin with double bed . . $10,790 USD per person (great for a couple) Single Cabin with a single bed . . $11,190 USD per person
Important: A mandatory flight- & hotel package is on top of this as well: USD 2590.00 per person. It includes two nights in Reykjavik (one before, one after), a flight to Greenland from Iceland, transfer in connection to this flight. Talk to Kevin about a pre or post-Iceland tour.
If we get enough interest, I may do a pre-trip or after trip Iceland photo adventure. Let me know if you are interested.
M/S Balto Deck Plan
Balto Deck Plan and cabins
Registration Form
You can download the registration form Download.Return the completed registration as shown on the registration form.Instructions for making your deposit are on the registration form. If you have any questions, please email Kevin at kwr@rockhopperworkshops.com
We are proud to present the latest addition to our fleet of small expedition ships, M/S Balto, named after the leading sled dog of 1925 Nome serum run. She was built for the highest ice class in Rauma, Finland, to serve as a government service vessel in the Baltic sea. During 2019-2020, she has been totally refurbished and is now one of the roomiest and most elegant small polar expedition yachts in service. M/S Balto offers relaxed luxury accommodation for 12 guests in 7 outside cabins, all with private facilities and lower beds. The spacious cabins include 1 Owner’s cabin, 1 superior cabin, 3 double cabins, and 2 single cabins. The Owner’s cabin is 30m2, has 6 windows and a queen bed, the superior cabin has two twin beds while the double cabins have a queen bed. The Owner’s and superior cabin also offer a separate seating area. In all cabins, you find a desk with a chair and a closet for storage.
On the guest deck, you also find a cedar-lined sauna, accommodating 4-6 persons, with a cold shower and a small changing room. The richly appointed saloon and the beautiful dining messroom feature mahogany paneling, a bar, a card table, a library, and coffee and tea stations. She offers a large restaurant-style open galley, where you can check on the marvels of our chefs and sample freshly baked bread.
There are several open and semi-enclosed deck spaces from where you can enjoy and photograph the stunning Arctic sceneries. You are welcomed by an international crew and the bridge is open for visitors.
The ship has been fitted with electric-diesel propulsion capable of maintaining versatile maneuvering and survey speeds with no vibration. It is therefore ideal as a film and photo platform. There is also a mudroom for expedition gear and two Zodiacs for wilderness cruises and offshore experiences. M/S Balto is truly one of a kind when it comes to small polar expedition ships. Traveling by this unique 12-passenger ship offers a completely different and much more intimate experience of Greenland compared to a larger expedition ship.
A small group of merely 12 passengers gives us more flexibility, unique itineraries, and more time ashore. Also, the footprints we leave behind are a lot smaller!
The M/S Balto is designed to explore the most remote fjord systems, visit isolated Inuit settlements, take you to secret anchorages and maximize each guest’s experience in the unspoiled wilderness. This is true micro cruising.
Weather conditions are highly variable, with temperatures hovering around the freezing mark. The continuous daylight warms sheltered areas so that you may find temperatures warm enough for t-shirts. However, you may encounter snow squalls, fog, and white-outs during an expedition and should be ready for any conditions.
What To Wear
Prior to the trip, we will go into more detail about what clothing is needed. We will also help you with deciding what photo gear to bring and what to expect.
More Images
August 24th - 31st, 2022. Two Berths Available
Price: Double Cabin with double bed . . $8990.00 USD per person (2 cabins available) Superior Cabin Twin Beds . . $9,690 USD per person ( Owner’s Cabin with double bed . . $10,790 USD per person (great for a couple) Single Cabin with a single bed . . $11,190 USD per person.
A mandatory flight & hotel package is on top of this as well: USD 2590.00 per person. It includes two nights in Reykjavik (one before, one after), a flight to CNP from Iceland, transfer in connection to this flight.
Price includes
7 nights onboard M/S Balto
All meals onboard
Coffee and tea
1 Expedition Leader and 1 guide
Guiding ashore and lectures on board
All excursions and activities
Comprehensive information material before the expedition
The trip is climate compensated
Not included
Mandatory transfer package from Reykjavik to Constable Point with a return. Polar Quest will reserve seats on the same flight and bill each participant.
International flights to and from Iceland
Travel and cancellation insurance (A Must!)
The customary gratuity to the ship’s crew
Personal expenses such as bar and shop charges
Hotels in Iceland prior to the trip and after. We suggest you arrive in Iceland a few days early and enjoy Iceland. Talk to Kevin.
Once you have booked your cruise, Polar Quest will assist you in booking the flights to and from Greenland.
May I suggest you leave some time in your schedule to explore Iceland (Kevin can help with plans there).
Some Fine Print . . .
Why Mandatory Flight and Hotel Package?
East Greenland is a true and remote wilderness. To get here with a small ship from Iceland means at least three days on the Denmark strait, a passage that can be quite rough for a small ship like M/S Balto. To be able to offer you a more comfortable experience with focus on Greenland’s spectacular nature, we have therefore chosen to book flights between Reykjavik (Iceland) to Kulusuk (Greenland). We have also included two hotel nights in Reykjavik, one before the expedition and one after. This is to allow for potential flight delays.
The Package Travel Directive – Protects The Traveller’s Rights
When you have booked a trip with PolarQuest, you are protected by the Package Travel Directive. This includes that you have the right to rebook your trip or cancel and receive a full refund, if your Government, or other relevant authorities, have implemented restrictions against travelling. This includes documented quarantine requirements in the country you are travelling to. However, free cancellation is only possible when it is less than 30 days to departure, provided the travel restrictions are still in place and clearly will affect your trip. You are also entitled to a full refund, should PolarQuest cancel the trip for any reason whatsoever.
